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Fantasy A World Untamed

Alright, everyone TIMESKIP TIME! Get your asses to Upolo, the city and the nation. Well at least the magic people, Im about to kickstart this war!
 
Just wait till the time skip basically what happens next is they go back and then go off to investigate Jenna sightings but i decided to cut that and just link up with them. Escorting them to the Talon HQ for questioning.
 
I don't think we should be so violent with Jenna....but that may give her powers a chance to manifest....hmmmmmm. 
Too right, ah well. 


Camori guided the strange boy through the Iturian forest. This spy would be submitted to due process in Ostrava and not earlier, the laws of the jungle would not apply to this situation. They already have a structured system of doing things and devolving back into the old ways it would make similar to the wild animals that prey on everything that moves in the jungle. Camori believed in this society that has lasted five hundred years on its own. The trek through the jungle was relatively eventless and the city walls of Ostrava had made itself apparent. He had finally reached civilization and this boy should be submitted to the authorities. Except the honor guard of Valesti had already made its way to the city and was camping outside. A smaller unit would accompany her inside. He turned to face the boy.


"Looks like I am not turning you in spy. The greatest hater of the Sernnite nation is in Ostrava, she would have you hanged publicly."


----------


Valesti left the stranger with Kronos and decided to double her pace to Ostrava. She had dallied enough in Bron and felt that she needed to make up for lost time. The sooner she may begin spreading rumors, the sooner she may spur the populace into war. She only needed to convince them of the threat of Sernn to Upolo and then Ituro. She would tell them the merits of striking first to protect their neighbors because they were not selfish animals that looked only for their own. More to the point, Upolo was a major trading power and it was partially responsible for the raw materials Ituro needs to reinforce the border towns and establish newer ones in abundant places along the shoreline and the jungle treeline.



She arrived at Ostrava faster than she thought she could after forcing the horses to make a hard gallop straight for Ostrava. She dismounted and headed in, immediately asking for her cousin. Cyrus would no doubt be in the keep but she had to make sure either way. There was much for her to discuss with him. Hilde had had enough of waiting for her son, she would wither away and would never have her vengeance if she did. Her boy would simply have to catch up with the rest of army soon, hopefully before they decide to put the regent's head on a spike and burn down Sernn's capital.



Hilde urged her cousin to prepare the military forces in and around Ostrava. She convinced him quite easily of the merits of attacking now rather than hold a desperate defensive later on. Showing their strength first would also insult Sernn and show Upolo that they are finally stepping up. Sernn was a large opponent and this gambit hinged on Upolo joining the conflict at some point. At the very least, Cyrus would be used as a sacrificial pawn to by martyred so the people would have a respectable figure to rally behind. That was if, things were not going to plan. A death and a few inspiring words would be sufficient to rile the ignorant masses and boost popular support.



---------



Lazarus had arrived back at the council chambers of Upolo. The council was in the middle of a meeting but he saw it fit to intrude on whatever dispute of some pitiable amount of coin. After all, his issue was a more pressing concern than that of the guilds or the races. It was about a festering illness that has long since plagued Upolo and its land.



He began detailing what had been a response to a minor bandit attack that evolved into exterminating a nest of rats. Abandoned buildings have been used as nests for the rats since the Talons never seem to check them anymore. It could stand to reason that the poorer regions of the nation could possibly be under the Rat King's influence. Lazarus appealed to Escha to increase the patrols all throughout the country and to step up the recruitment of the Talons. It was not that they will need the numbers but more of if they should ever need the numbers on their side. He couldn't shake the feeling of unease that crept over his artificial body as he thought about the implications of Rat influence in the poorer regions. These people have nothing to lose and much to gain if they sided with the Rat King.


They needed to show that the Talons still existed. He also motioned for lighter taxation around that area and to bolster existing trade agreements with the other nations to compensate for the negative influence of this act to the national treasury. It should at least alleviate the burdens of those out farming in the plains and fields. He was met with much opposition for the tax cuts though, it would take some time to convince them of his plan or not all.






"Boy, I think it is time we leave this place."





It was early morning when Camori came for the lad. Valesti had been gaining ground with the masses in Ostrava and it seemed that the idea for breaking the ceasefire was making itself more and more appealing to the masses. Valesti made several points that did not so much as make sense but these are broken people who live under the constant threat of a raid. They live in fear and Hilde is trying to turn that fear into something more focused and precise.


It would not be long before they begin to treat strangers with hostility. If it does not look like a rich Upolonian or an Iturian then it is a threat to the nation and therefore must be shunned. He could see it now and this lad, Thane he called himself, was a stranger in his own right. He had given the boy clothes that fit with the Iturian culture and help him blend in with the people. But he could not guarantee the boy's safety in this city or within Ituro in general. The boy seemed to at least, make a compelling argument that he was not even from this land. Camori would question him, after they get into Upolo. He was fascinated at least and would like the learn of the land beyond the sea. The land where the Stenhardt patriarch vanished into. For now, it was prudent that they leave as soon as they are able. Ituro would be at war soon enough, Hilde had too much momentum. They had arrived in Upolo later that day and found some lodging. Camori paid for several days' worth for the room. Upolo had just become a refuge.


-----


Lazarus had been working day and night with the Talons to search for and exterminate the rats. Those criminals had so much influence in the countryside he was ashamed that he was oblivious to their presence. They were only searching the cities and not the towns nor villages, the Rat King may have noticed this as he moved may moved his assets into the poorer areas that weren't in the search range of the Talons. Some villages even defended the Rats, proclaiming them as saviors. The situation was dire yet he found himself in an even stranger request.


Escha had brought him a report about a rumor near the norther border that there was strange looking girl who seemed to invincible. Stories would say she was ran through with a sword and yet she just got back up on her feet regardless of how many times she was struck. The details are hazy but seemed like she was also accompanied by a giant. It was possible that the barbarians have some sort of foul magic under their control but the girl did not look like a barbarian in the slightest. Lazarus thought it was best to investigate and deal with this rumor before the people start petitioning him to attack Hyr, much like the tension that is building up in the south. He set out with Serriah to investigate. It would prove to be quite the goose chase.






Lazarus scoured the northern border, high and low, to search for the stranger and her barbarian companion. He needed to get to the bottom of this and it was a bit difficult with Serriah around. She had yet to learn much of the ways of the world and he thought this would be a good decision. It give her some hands-on insight about the diversity of this land. He was not sure she had fully grasped the concept but he had to hope and he had to be patient.


Most of the people pointed them to a certain area, and they had come across the group on the road. They were apparently horse thieves too but he wouldn't kill them. He needed to know why there was a report of a horse thief stranger in his lands and more importantly, where they were headed and where she had come from. A brutal skirmish ensued but Lazarus made sure Serriah stayed out of the fight with the barbarian and instead just keep the girl from running as well as the injured man. He had not killed the barbarian but had effectively disarmed him and knocked him unconscious and placed in "manacles" a more effective form of restraining criminals developed by the Talons. They were essentially wooden binds that would bind the arms together and limit what the prisoner may do.


He was proud of his handiwork as this may be the first time he had decided to cleanly subdue an opponent. For once, there wasn't so much blood on him or his prisoner. He placed the same "manacles" on the girl and led them back to the city, where they would be questioned by Lazarus himself. Serriah and Escha would be present as well but he would be the one mainly asking the questions. With luck, they would be back in the city limits before sundown.


-----


Hilde had successfully convinced Cyrus a few days prior to agree to breaking this farce called a ceasefire. It was just an excuse by the Sernnites to develop their weapons of war to use against Ituro. They should attack now before Sernn gets back to full fighting force. She did not trust them to fight with honor. It was all about being the first to land the first preemptive strike against a stain on the land. Cyrus had asked her for a few days to gather able bodied men and women to march into the sands and even more to reinforce the border towns and Ostrava itself. The border towns would be turned into outposts that would ward against or at least serve as a first line of defense against possible Sernnite retaliation.


The days passed and she found the numbers of the fighters to be swelling exponentially. Reports came and went but they were all detailing the progress of converting the towns into forward bases and defensive outposts. Everything was proceeding smoothly and that made Hilde uneasy. There was something wrong with all of this. Cyrus had told her that they would attack the border towns of Sernn under the cover of night. It would help give them a foothold without giving away their position to the Sernnites. The desert was vast and open, it would be easy for them to be spotted from a long distance.


Night came and she was called to ride out to Sernn along with the main support division. They had seized a number of border towns in Sernn and that would be the staging ground of their invasion. She laughed at the obliviousness of Sernn. They were supposed to be military juggernauts and yet they were blind to several days worth of Iturian forces marching down their borders and taking their towns by force. This invasion would not last too long. As long as they could hold the Sernnite border towns.


The main unit stationed itself in the town of Dune's End, a small frontier town that was near an oasis in the desert. It would provide the army with much needed water. Hilde met with her cousin who seemed to be locked in his expression of perpetual worry. The vanguard were enjoying the fine delights of Dune's End both the reputed wine and the women who were spared the sword. It was a night of celebration yet Hilde and Cyrus knew that this was just the beginning.


"What are we aiming for next? We should not stop here, we should push our advantage and move deeper into Sernn's territory. They do not know about our arrival yes?"


"I can not say for certain cousin, I am not sure we were able to dispatch all the runners they sent to warn the regent. For now, we must assume there is a survivor who is desperately banging at the gates of the Sernnite castle. We dare not move now that we have taken a few towns, I know it sounds cowardly but I would rather face Sand Elves in the light of day rather than risk being ambushed by a patrolling unit at night where are just as blind as the humans we just gutted."


"So we assume they know we are here by dawn's break tomorrow? Very well, we must look to shore up the towns we have seized. Then send out scouts to gauge Sernn's awareness and strength. Have you requistioned more units from the Iturian militia or is there an Upolonian mercenary company you have hired?"


"I do not rightly trust those sellswords but I have requested more soldiers to bolster the numbers we already have. They will arrive by midday tomorrow. In the meantime, I was planning to do exactly that, scout, at first light."






The sun came up as he finally finished his interrogation of the barbarian and the girl and their injured ally who had been treated first before locked up with his companions. It seemed as though they knew nothing. He still had to punish them for the horse theft and decided to permanently confiscate their belongings except for the clothes on their back. He did not take kindly to thieves and yet he gave them a light punishment that was scathing in its own right, he did give the barbarian a few bruises for disciplinary reasons. He would detain them for a while longer however for an extensive review by Escha, she was not satisfied with the questioning. No doubt Serriah would be filled with questions when she learns of what he had done.


However, one more round of questioning and then he may believe that these people know nothing.


"I will ask you again. Where did you all come from and why were stealing horses? In fact where are you even headed toward? You know, you made quite the commotion for my people and I would rather you answer this truthfully and you may yet reserve the right to eat. My hunger is nonexistent and my patience is limitless, we can go at this all day just like we did last night and I would not be bothered in the slightest. Now answer the questions, make this easier for both of you and your injured friend."


------


"Thane, wake up. I think there is quite the commotion happening outside right now."


Camori pointed to the window of their inn room. He peered out to see a gathering of people with one man at the head speaking to them. No doubt this was another protester or instigator that have been plaguing the council hall of Upolo. They would be demonstrating their belief and ideals but then only a fair few would gather around. Lazarus was an effective leader that made decisions which would keep the people happy and the nation growing. He had been around for more than a thousand years, it was no surprise he knew what he should be doing. People respected him and these protesters always had week arguments or nonsensical standpoints just to oppose the authorities. They were people hungry for attention in this peaceful enough setting.


shit present day post is shit.
 
TIME SKIP IS DONE....FEEL FREE TO DETAIL WHAT HAPPENED TO YOUR CHARACTERS IN THE SKIP OR NOT
 
Greyden & Arcden


5 Days Prior

With stubborn determination, the twins were able to make up for almost all the lost time caused by their delays earlier in the day. They were relentless in their pace, turning down any offer to slow or stop, and continued to nightfall without complaint. Despite the cold they were both covered with a sheen of sweat and scalding hot from the effort. Greyden set down his charge with a slightly exhausted smile while Arcden dropped both packs when they made camp at dusk. It was unwise to continue in the dark for a few reasons, but paramount was that this was unfamiliar terrain. The half-elves had night vision yet it was not nearly as good as they would need to persevere even should they still have the energy. Wood for a campfire was quickly gathered and when the flames flickered into existence, providing their warmth, the twins were relieved.


It was proving to be a rather quiet evening for the pair (as even Greyden was apparently too tired for conversation). As Arcden settled down to inspect Zaria's armor, his duplicate reached over him to get some water out of his bag when he 'accidentally' spilled almost the entirety of his water flask onto Arcden's shirt. While they had plenty of other water (gathered at towns, from snow, rain, and the like) this created the issue of compounding the freezing wind and weather. With insistent cajoling and no other options, Arcden was forced to remove his shirt and inch closer to the fire. The heat emanating and his cloak were the only protection he had at hand while the garment dried. With a sigh of resignation he then set to working on the metal plates of Zaria's attire- though it was slightly uncomfortable as it required some proximity and he was bare-chested. Greyden grinned with smug satisfaction and winked at Chickadee.


Arcden was not a blacksmith by trade, but he carried some basic tools for repair to his prized swords should it become necessary. Pushing aside the various whetstones he pulled forth a hammer that was meant to correct small problems with his blades as well as what essentially amounted to a pair of pliers. He set to work on Zaria's problem with intense focus such that he almost forgot their slightly compromising state. It took the better half of an hour and a few muttered profanities (rare at best from Arcden) before he leaned back in satisfaction. His work was not nearly as flawless as a professional might be but now the metal had been coaxed into compliance, sliding where it had always been meant to. The assassin pointed out he believed that the purity of the ore that had created the armor was compromised, thus is bent and twisted more easily than it ought to.


Watches were determined that evening. Even Greyden could not justify sharing a blanket and cloak with a single woman, so they unilaterally decided to employ two watches. First the men (who were barely conscious by the time dinner was completed) would sleep while Zaria and Chickadee maintained watch. After half the night had passed they woke the twins and then slept while the males kept watch. It was inconvenient but better than venturing into town unnecessarily; Hyr people were not hospitable to the weak and doubly so if they were foreigners. Although it was quite cold, it was management and none of them were likely to suffer any ill effects until venturing farther north.


4 Days Prior






The vigorous pace of the day prior persisted. Arcden and Greyden had established that for the sake of sanity that they must sacrifice some of their strength: there were two innocent girls in danger. One of them was abducted by the very man they pursued while the other was in their company and being subjected to the peril of their journeys. They cooked breakfast before dawn so it would be ready before their companions even woke. It was no doubt different than what Chickadee was used to but their traveling on the road meant they made slightly better than adequate cooks. Arcden had been able to hunt a couple of rabbits, which had been diligently butchered and cooked with light seasoning over the flame and paired with bread they had obtained a few days ago and was slightly crusty. The juices of the meat helped to soften the bread slightly and the herbs that had been utilized gave it sufficient flavor not to need another accompaniment. Arcden usually performed 'grunt word' or 'prep' and the actual 'chef' was Greyden- though both preferred Zaria to expending the effort themselves.


After they ate they set back to the road, stopping only briefly for a traveling merchant. Despite any objections that might be raised (and to be certain he expected them), Arcden turned over some coin for a warmer change of clothes for their teenaged friend. At first the merchant tried to gouge the quartet with pricing, but a stern look and threat of imminent bodily harm persuaded him to give the 'Hyr native discount.' They gave Chickadee a chance to either layer or completely change before proceeding on the road once more. It was frustrating for the prideful lady to have to be carried the entire route but they could not spare the time to continue at a more leisurely pace. It was already a test of the limitations of the pair and would not be a viable choice for a fully human youth, regardless of sex or stamina.


Zaria was able to gather much-needed information that was indicative that they were closing in on the kidnapping-rapist-fiend. To keep their moods 'light,' Greyden took it upon himself to strike up a rather one-sided situation of how to 'deal with the situation of Arcden's unrequited love.' He was careful to avoid naming the woman in question, as he didn't want his sibling to physically harm him in frustration, yet he dropped a couple clues. He suggested a trip to the brothel as a way to 'alleviate the burdens of a bachelor' which was refuted with silence. As this did not garner the reaction he had hoped for, he elaborated he could find someone as 'petite as the woman of desire.' Arcden tossed back a glare but still refused to comment. Greyden remarked he could also almost certainly find a blonde as was Arcden's 'type.' At this there was a notable tensing of the stoic half-elf's musculature and the conversation then turned towards Greyden telling Chickadee of all the rustic delicacies of the different countries he had enjoyed. The joy and approval in his tone was genuinely- he appreciated a good meal almost as much as he enjoyed listening to his own voice blathering on and on.


Darkness had enveloped the horizon before they made it to a hut that Zaria had been informed was currently being occupied by the scoundrel in question. He had discovered the tribes further north in the Sky Fingers were even more hostile to foreigners than those close to the Upolo or Iesti borders. As a result he had holed himself in a derelict domicile long abandoned by Hyr natives. Encroaching night meant that, as fatigued as they were, it would be much easier to sneak up on the man and take him by surprise. As blustery winds struck the twins, they quietly argued about the best course of action, all of which included leaving Chickadee outside so she would not be traumatized by what they were about to do. The temptation to rest was enticing beyond words but this was an opportunity to spare a young girl from another evening at the mercy of a malevolent being, secure themselves temporary shelter, and race against the clock quite so feverishly. Arcden was of the mind to take the risk while Greyden was slightly more pensive, but ultimately they decided to take the gamble with or without the blessing of their spy elf confidant. Zaria was given the choice to either join them or stay with their less combat-oriented traveling mate.


Before approaching the building they made Chickadee turn with her back towards it, just to be certain she did not catch a glimpse of what would be certain bloodshed. With renewed vigor they flanked the only working entrance to the humble abode and made motions to one another. Arcden traditionally took the lead but in situations like this, when Greyden was incensed and filled with righteous rage, there was little merit to trying to keep him from entering first. They rushed in, low to the ground and their movements both swift and silent. The day had worn on them yet the adrenaline of the situation heightened their senses and drowned out the pain. Fortunately their target was unarmed, but more unfortunately he was completely nude. He had just begun to turn when there was a choked sound of fury that escaped Greyden and he lunged forward, plunging his blade deep into the man's torso. There was a bellowing roar of pain from the scoundrel that echoed through the walls. Arcden strode forward quickly, rendering the man unconscious with the flat of the blade. The assassins quickly grabbed the man before he bled out and hustled him through the front door and around the back of the home. While Greyden took out some pent-up aggression on the corpse, Arcden retrieved Chickadee and ushered her inside while making certain to steer her clear from as much of the freshly deposited blood as possible.


The girl was traumatized and neither man thought it wise to approach her. More often than not this sort of crime left survivors with a healthy distrust and/or hatred of the other sex and they were simply too tired to manage diplomacy at this hour. The slain criminal had gathered food for himself and his prisoner which was easily split amongst them now and consumed for a dinner meal. There was little need for establishing a watch with their acquired roof but they did so in prudence. This time, though, as there was an abundance of supplies and even the crumbling exterior to keep in warmth. It offered a respite that the twins so sorely needed they fell asleep after their watch and allowed rest through the late morning before rallying for a return to Upolo.


3 Days Prior






It was quickly determined that, despite the late hour, the duplicates were in no state to carry both their packs and the two human females even if they had a mind to. Not only would the weight be an excessive burden, it would also destabilize them to try to balance two different sets of dead weight on their person. Greyden was in notable worse shape. He said nothing and did nothing to exhibit the toll the stress and strain had put on him, but Zaria and Arcden could see the subtle hints he was edging closer to collapse. His pallor was more pronounced, his gait less smooth, and his lips more faded- not to mention the lack of good-natured jokes that defined their morning meals.


The pace was slowed to a "brisk human walk" that was also a "slow elven walk"- a middling center that all of them could achieve and maintain throughout the course of the day. As their backs were turned to the Sky Fingers and they began to descend rather than ascend, travel itself became quite a bit easier. The ground they covered was comparable to what was achieved when traveling in the opposite direction. Greyden was alarmingly quite and withdrawn, though he appeared relieved to be returning to Upolo after a jaunt in such cold weather. Camp was made later in the day than before as the road became less perilous rather than more perilous with each additional hour. With torches that burned more easily without the winds of earlier in the day, they continued an hour or two past dusk before rolling out the blankets and creating a fire. With Greyden now obviously a bit out of sorts Arcden and Zaria distributed the rations and tended the fire. He was allowed to sleep the entire night without watch or interruptions (despite protest).


It was still cool, though not as insufferably so, and so Arcden quietly hoped that the next day would put them into town with Greyden having a full recovery. There were other matters that merited their attention, even if one deadline had been met and the other was not yet quite so ominously looming. Chickadee needed a safe harbor to reside in at least temporarily, Zaria had a wedding to attend, and there was coin to collect for returning their employer's daughter.


2 Days Prior






The day was bright and clear and breakfast was done in a rush to make the most out of the daylight. It was possible that, with quite a bit of effort, they could arrive in their village destination in the late of night. Greyden was in better health and spirits upon waking and sang a few songs to prove he no longer needed mothering. Were there words to describe exactly the tone he took as they started on the worn path it would be 'tortured tune deaf wailing cat.' Arcden reassured him several times that they had faith in his assertion before he changed the topic to relating to Chickadee the various cuisines of all the nations. Listening to him banter so casually and comfortably, yet with great appreciation and passion, she could assume that he enjoyed eating almost as much as the sound of his own voice. Some of the dishes he tried were incredibly eccentric yet many had similarities to her home. He questioned her on flavors and arrangement in the hopes that he could at least prepare something simple that would be comforting for her.


Their pace accelerated slightly as the day drew on. The climate became more hospitable and temperate, allowing them to remove their cloaks and move with more ease. It was a relatively mild day and more wildlife was beyond the edges the road as they neared the Upolo border. It was not that they disliked the nation they were departing- rather, they were much more suited for Upolo, Iesti, or Ituro. Sernn had the blistering heat that would incinerate them without being covered from head to foot while Hyr was more pleasant for a hardy human than a 'frail' elven heritage. The gentle downward slopes of the hills they now found themselves on urged them to pick up their feet. A decision was made to press on at nightfall as the territory was more 'gentle' and familiar.


Late into the evening, when the town was asleep except for drunkards, harlots, and guards, they finally arrived. As tempting as the inn was, they were certain to escort the rescued victim to her father's house so Zaria could reunite the hopefully-happier family and also collect their payment. While they did not expect any trouble on that front, the men stayed outside the house with Chickadee to make certain there were not any negotiations that required a literal strong-arm. Stifling yawns they then proceeded to the inn where a cantankerous innkeeper eyed them warily. Pale elves were not exactly the sort she saw, much less those arriving in the dead hours, but they paid well and assured they'd be quiet. She snorted in disapproval, handed them a pair of keys, and waddled back to her own bed as they found their rooms. It was an indulgence they did not usually afford themselves but this job had been taxing and they still had a guest.


1 Day Prior






They edged out of town after breakfast, evading as many villagers as possible. It had been decided, now that they no longer had the damsel to return, that Upolo City was the best place to take Chickadee. Hyr was full of people who valued physical strength and stamina to such an extent that they did not believe it was a wise choice for her. Sernn was (and had been for a while) in a state of political turmoil that worried the pair- not to mention it was the opposite way of their travel. Iesti was ruled out even before Hyr on account of their bigotry and tendency to not only enslave humans but to use them as test subjects for questionable experiments. Traveling to Ituro was an inconvenience if they still wanted to accompany Zaria to Iesti, thus Upolo was chosen for efficacy and simplicity. From there the debate was about where would be most beneficial from the range of villages and towns that were spread across the territory. Upolo City was a risk due to the infamy and less-than-lawful profession of the twins, but it had the most potential. Many sages resided in the capital and if nothing else, the bustling economy would allow her the most choices for a fresh start if needed.


The road to Upolo City was wide and well-traveled, even more so than that utilized to Hyr. It was wide and flat with several peddlers of goods along the way. Greyden stopped one that was carrying scribe supplies and purchased a blank book, vial of ink, and pen for Chickadee despite any and all objections that might be had. Even if she didn't think it was important to write, he knew how frustrated she likely was at all the things she couldn't do. It was a rare sign of generosity given how he usually spent most of his money on transient, basic needs. It lulled Arcden into believing that Chickadee was a sufficient distraction his 'crush' would not be revisited- until Greyden cheerily mentioned he still had the funds to get Arcden a 'blond, petite, perhaps even elven' girl that was his 'type' once they at the city. Arcden flashed a dangerous expression that silenced that conversation before it even began.


They stopped and made camp a few hours out of the city. It was easier to be leisurely in their approach and greet it with fresh eyes than to stumble in later in the day. Suspicion was to be avoided at all costs and there would be more foot traffic tomorrow morning than at this hour. Greyden rambled on to Chickadee about his childhood, urging her to feel free to transcribe what would be 'good material' for a biography if she lacked a topic for using his purchase. After a couple hours of meandering half-stories and quips, he had only made it to age four before turning in for the night.


Present Day


And so the intrepid quasi-heroes quickly packed up their camp, doused the fire, stomped the embers, and made their way back towards the oft-traveled road. It was a mere couple hours before they reached the edge of the city that would hopefully have some answers for their lost friend. With their heads covered by hoods and trying to look as inconspicuous as possible, the twins approached the gates with trepidation. Today would be momentous for their strange charge: she had to make a decision they could not possibly make for her. Would she find a way back to the strange world she came from or would be forced to discover a route in the unfamiliar Boldan?


@Auren @pastel stitchings
 
(Okay, this might be a terrible post. Just warning. I just woke up and that is a lot to summarize lol.)


During their travels, Chickadee had found that her eating tendencies worked greatly in her favor in the strange land. She would eat anything and everything without asking what it was or what it tasted like. Maybe it was because she was always very hungry when it was time to eat, but still, it helped. Everything tasted fine to her anyways, and nothing was too weird. Chickadee had eaten rabbits before. Back at home though, she had felt terrible for eating them since all she could imagine was a cute fluffy bunny being killed. Now, that wasn't a problem.


Other than that, traveling with the small group had not been too bad. Of course, she had not let Greyden carry her the entire time. More than often she had insisted that she try to walk, or more like run, with them. And all those times ended up with her back on Greyden's. But, everytime she made him put her down she could go a longer distance begore having to be carried again, so there was that. Anyways, Chickadee also found that she very much enjoyed talking to Greyden. He was like a cool uncle to her, which back at home she did not have (her real uncle was a severe stick-in-the-mud boring kind of guy who seemed to find joy in being a party-ruiner and made awful jokes when he tried to be fun). And his constant talking took her mind off everything else happening for the most part. And getting the correct clothes for the weather helped too. Chickadee still disliked Zaria throughout the trip, but did not let it show too much.


When the group got to where they were going, Chickadee had been more than happy to stay outside like she had been told. The teenager had a love for horror movies and such, but she doubted that whatever was happening inside would not be anything like a horror movie. While out there, scared, Chickadee could have sworm that a small statue of a horse had moved towards her, as if to comfort her. But, she dismissed it as her just seeing things because she was frightened, and never did mention it to anybody, even though it happened multiple times. When she was taken into the building, Chickadee saw some of the blood then quickly covered her eyes. Nope! She was not looking at that! Once out of the building she opened her eyes and tried to talk to the girl the others had just rescued, but eventually gave up and walked silently.


The trip to get the girl back to her home had been kind of difficult with Greyson getting sick for a while. She had stayed near him during that time, worried. Then again, she stayed near him every other time even when she wasn't being carried, so it was not much of a difference. When the girl was returned and Greyden was back to his usual self, Chickadee found that she felt much calmer. Until it dawned on her that soon she might be on her own. When it was agreed that she was going to Upolo, she stress slowly came back. What was she going to do on her own. She had only been in that world for a like five days, she did not know what she could possibly do. When she recieved the blank book and ink, she took the opportunity to start using it as a sort of diary. It helped a little with her growing dread, but she still felt like her hair might start falling out from fear.


(And that's all I can do. Sorry.)
 
Thane...


Thane opened his eyes and scowled fiercely, instantly awake.


"Again? What is it about this time?"


He joined Camori at the window overlooking the street. There was indeed another commotion outside, a large crowd gathering to listen to one man speaking, hanging on his every word. He almost smiled at the sight. Some things never change no matter dimension you are on, politicians and mobs.


The last few days had been confusing at best and disorienting at worse. He had to get used to a whole different world in the matter of days, and the war brewing only made it more urgent. He learned to keep his mouth shut and did what he was told, trusting his life into a creature that was both disturbing in look and bizarre in nature. After the third day, strange sights stopped surprising him, There was only so much shock a man can take, and the birdman and the tiger attack of the first day had knocked most of it out. Thane did not pretend to understand anything that was happening, the nature of the war, the culture, anything, and he told Camori that. He even tried to explain that he wasn't from Boldan, but gave up after that first try. The disinterested amusement in the Avis Vir told him enough. He questioned his sanity again then, recognising that he could read emotions off a bird face. As if it wasn't as crazy as anything else that was happening around him.


He didn't understand Camori himself. The Avis Vir called him a traitor, yet protected and sheltered him instead of turning him to his death. If there was a hidden motif or lie anywhere in Camori's word, he couldn't tell. And frankly, he didn't care. The Avis Vir was the only thing keeping him from certain death right then, and as long as that doesn't change, he left it alone. Thane felt like this world was toying with him. Hey, you just became yourself again after years living as a shell? You crave adventures? Here, take this war that conviniently started right when you came here. Have a nice death!


He stopped walking down that train of thoughts, feeling another headache coming up.


"What do we do now?"

latepostisshitandlate

 

Ludovic of Hyr


Healer's Shack and Other Areas Besides





"Ludo will ride with you." Seurn said, then groaned as he peeled himself off the bed. His face was paled, his expression tight, and his mouth was curling with restraint. While his hand pressed to his abdomen, and he straightened, Ludo stood across the room, watching his friend with narrowed eyes. It was a moment before he was satisfied with his friend's progress and turned his gaze on Jenna.


The Upolo people here looked eager to mete out death upon this strange creature, and that only because she was strange. It was not something the mercenary could agree with, and he was certain Seurn felt much the same. Indeed, they had already come to terms with the fact that it was not the place of two homeless mercenaries to right all the wrongs in the world -- only the wrongs right in front of them. Ludo caught Seurn's eye and nodded, receiving one in kind.


Besides, he'd stabbed her, so he owed her.


Seurn offered his hand to the girl, then hesitated before adjusting the movement. He pat the top of her head and reassured her like she were no more than a small child. "Don't worry, Jenna. Don't you worry about this one bit. Ludo will take care of you. And when I get better, I'll take care of you, too. So just trust us and do as we say, alright?"


Seurn sent a wink Ludo's way and the larger man snorted. As usual, Seurn handled the emotional side of business so Ludo could focus on the tactical.


The barbarian addressed Seurn, but his words were meant more for the strange girl. "The horses are gathered at the front gate. Keep your eyes straight for it and do not stray from that line of travel." His spear was propped against the nearby wall, and Ludo took it in hand. He turned open the door and gestured they go through it.


He took up the rear, two steps behind, scanning through the crowd and crouching in readiness. The villagers, meanwhile, had managed to raise up their pillar of wood and were now setting bundles of sticks all around it. Layabouts watched the labor in place, and freely surveyed the area. The idiocy could only save the three of them for so long. It was only a matter of time before they were spotted.


"That's the one!" Came a call from behind them. Ludo craned his head and saw the mayor with a collection of rather burly fellows emerge from a particularly large hut.


"Faster." He urged the two of them, gauging the distance. While it would take them fifty paces to be in range of physical assault, the villager crowd on their pyre assignment took notice, and by the current rate of their furious sprint, it looked like Ludo would have to deal with them first.


And slaughtering twenty villagers wasn't exactly a favorite pasttime of his.


So he came up with an alternative.


"Run!"


But Seurn was injured and Jenna was slow. The crowd gained, and Ludo knew he and his spear would not be enough to overcome them all. So he took the woman and threw her over his shoulder, and grabbed Seurn, who yelled out a protest, by the shoulder and knee and hastened with them both to the end of the village. As soon as they'd reached the horses, he released them, suddenly dropping them down in a heap, and raised his spear toward the gatekeeper. The man cowered, luckily, so Ludo kicked open the shoddy, held together by a rusted lock gate.


Seurn was boosted up to his horse, and though he groaned, he managed a nod to testify his wellness. Ludo was less patient with Jenna, for the village horde was narrowing in. He threw her over the front of the saddle and jumped up after. No sooner had he settled himself that he felt the proximity of the hostiles being far too near. He thrust his spear through the eye of the nearing villager, piercing through hand and cutting up and out of his flesh.


That first blood drawn was sufficient enough for the villagers to hesitate, and in that opening, Ludo prodded the sickly beast into a gallop, and, Seurn ahead, they escaped.


The group of three hastened into a dying day, tarried on until the sunset burned low in the sky and by their sight the path turned black. It was then that Seurn admitted he could go no further. He was a pasty kind of pale now, bending over like he couldn't completely hold himself up. Blood was seeping from the wound again, the flesh torn loose by the jostling of his horse. But the smile on his face said he was still alright. He was strong.


They set up camp and rested for the night, under the trees and the stars, a fire set, the horses tethered, and naught but the grass and dirt as cushion.


Ludo tended the fire as Seurn and the girl lounged. The group, largely Seurn and Ludo, mulled over their options. They couldn't bring the girl to any authorities -- the hostility in the village alone was testament to the danger of revealing supernatural capability. A course of action was decided when they remembered they were entirely out of cash -- they needed a job. The nearest city was a number of leagues west, but they should be able to make it on the sickly horses.


The question, then, was how willing the girl was to stay with them. And did she have any goal in coming here? Seurn asked the questions, and Ludo watched the fire with his own thoughts.


Ludo was under the assumption that she knew about as much of her situation as they. She seemed a caring girl, if a bit naiive and living at her own pace. He would simply wait to follow whatever the spirits had in mind, and stay alive in the meantime.


They travelled by horse and foot over the next few days, avoiding villages and living off the food of the forest.


Until the attack came upon them swiftly and without warning. With such weak defenses, and only Ludo to battle for them, they were overcome after a brief struggle, and captured.


They were treated well enough, for assumed criminals, and the cage they were placed in was friendlier than most.


Seurn, after all, had been tended to. Ludo could not withstand long within this closed space, yet he was of sound enough mind to be grateful to their captors for not being of worse character.


Nonetheless, Ludo had learned not to trust Upolo's authorities. They were corrupt, easily bribed, and never interested in the truth. When they asked a question, it was for their own benefit, and little else besides.


For that reason, Ludo turned his head aside and said nothing.
 
Jenna- Upolo (Various)


Jenna has been bolstered by Seurn's reassurances that they would take care of her. Even if he spoke to her in the manner she saw her mother speak to her younger brother and sister, it sincerely put her at ease. Her guardians had accepted their task of protecting her and so she believed there was little to fear. Ludovic was a bit surly compared to the other man and briefly she considered that they functioned very much like a married couple. Seurn was the maternal figure, thoughtfully guiding the direction of a conversation and expressing emotions when necessary, yet remaining firm and confident. By contrast, the barbarian was a paternal figure that displayed less 'feelings,' outwardly showed his physical prowess, and decided the best course of the action for the group.


There was not time to dwell on this analogy. She was led out of the hut to be directed towards the horses and was sprinting in that direction when she heard the angry yelling and the pounding feet quickly approaching. Her breath caught in her throat and she glanced backwards at the angry mob and the pyre they had been constructing just beyond. Her step staggered and faltered just as Ludovic swept her up over his broad shoulder and she was too stunned to protest.


It was a blur. A horrible blur of revelations and villagers screaming. Besides the occasional fight at school (none of which Jenna herself witnessed) violence was completely foreign to her- much more on this level. Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined such hostility lobbed at her. As the horse advanced to a gallop and she was jostled across the saddle with Ludovic behind her, she tried to grasp the exact situation.


When she had arrived in this foreign world she knew it was some greater purpose and immediately considered magic. It was the sort of tales but no more than being transported to a fantasy realm as she clearly was. When she was stabbed through and taken to the hut she tried to be brave and to set aside the pain. Her strange dress was evidently jarring to the natives of this place but the healer's reaction was... fearful. He was clearly aghast at something on her person that had propelled him to report it to the Mayor. Ludovic had tried to hide the truth in kindness and she might have lived in ignorance for a while longer had it not been for the reaction of the populace. Jenna had spotted the stake and the contorted visages as they departed. Something was wrong, terribly wrong, and it was not the two men with her that was the subject of this controversy. It was centered squarely on this wound that she had come to realize was not wet with blood despite the rough treatment. Was she infected? No, Ludovic would not have let her be so simply bandaged, nor would there be such alarm towards it. What then? If she were some manner of undead creature then there would be other side effects. Perhaps it was a higher power that had mysteriously gifted her with the ability to recuperate more quickly from injury?


By the time they stopped for the night Jenna realized the pain was not itself mitigated. She was sore and slightly bruised from the way that she had 'ridden' the steed until they made camp. Jenna was notably subdued when Seurn questioned her and it was evident that finally some of the trauma was making an impact on her psyche. The teenager affirmed she had no idea why she was here nor even precisely what had done it- she was as directionless as they were. All she could reveal was her belief that some benevolent force had placed her in their care. After all, could it truly be a coincidence that she stumbled into two attractive males that did not shun her when the others did so eagerly?


After it was established she would stay with them she tried to sleep. As fervently she believed and fancied herself some magical girl priestess in a mystical world to be guarded by several handsome warriors, she could not forget the burdens. Her abdomen did not seep blood or other fluids, but it throbbed with the absence of distractions. The dirt earth was foreign, hard, and a stark contrast to the comforts of home. The fear and vitriol in the faces of the villagers was burned into her memory along with the image of the large stake that almost became her grave. For well over an hour she curled up and tried to wish herself to sleep with dogged determination but it refused to come. When her body finally succumbed to slumber it was fitful and she awoke numerous times- something she tried to hide from her new companions.


The next few days were trying on the younger girl. As innocent as she was to the machinations to the world, she understood the need to paint herself with a smile and not show any emotional scarring. There were bigger issues to confront than just her worries: where to go, what to eat, and how far they could travel each day. It was difficult to watch Jenna struggle to find a footing into her optimism when it faltered at times... but she refused to cry. No hardship they endured elicited even so much as a frown and while she occasionally winced at her tender injury, she did not cry out or request special treatment. Jenna was the heroine and so she tried to act it. It was a coping mechanism she clung to desperately as the evenings of little and poor-quality rest went on.


And then they were captured by a tall, strange-looking man that she heard called "Lazarus" and an equally bizarre-looking woman she heard addressed as "Serriah." Ludovic fought them bravely while Jenna looked on helplessly and with each blow delivered to her savior she fostered animosity for the pair. By the time they had slapped manacles on them she looked on them with contempt that she did not bother to hide. It did not matter how well they treated Seurn or how compliant Ludovic was with this arrangement. All the stress had slowly built and now the only two people she knew were on her side were being assaulted and jailed for their role in her escape from death.


Jenna was a gentle soul typically. She tended to forgive people an instant after their offense on her. She strove to invite everyone, despite eccentricities and differences, to become one of her friends. Inclusion and acceptance was paramount. Yet she found herself struggling to maintain such a considerate demeanor in light of what had already transpired. She was worn down with the incessant interrogation, lack of food, and fatigue. For perhaps the first time ever she felt as if she was perhaps being confronted by a villain. Yes, why would a guardian of hers be this hostile and unfeeling? He associated himself with the villagers that sought to burn her alive for simply being different and that was something she could not so easily push aside. "Do you do this to everyone that is attacked by your people? You've already judged us, punished us, and absolved all of them." Jenna was sounding completely rational for that moment if not irritated. "Do what you want. I'd rather die of starvation than trust a villain."


She crossed her arms, fully prepared to take on as much as Lazarus could throw at her so long as she was still the heroine. It was the only role that could make sense of this, the only shred of Jenna could not let go, and so she would follow it as it plunged into absurdity... including calling law enforcement a villain. To his face. As if they were in a storybook instead of real life.
 
xBoldan - Upolo - Zaria L’instxxxxxxx

Day 5



Zaria felt almost naked while Arc worked on her armor. She pulled her thick cloaks close as she sat rather near to the fire in order to keep her own warmth. Her hands moved quick yet expertly as she carved on one of her totems. Her opinion on the human that had joined the troup was the same and she felt no need to converse with the near-worthless girl.

She only looked up from her carving when Greyden made a commotion and spilled some of their water over Arcden. She frowned with the latter removed his clothing. Part human or not, it was still a very cold night. But, she considered it an accidentally, so she spared Greyden her narrowed eyes. She returned to her totem, occasionally looking up when Arcden cursed. Occasionally, her thoughts wandered towards the male elf's scars and her sister's romanticized stories of a tragic hero who makes the best protectors.





She shook the thoughts away the moment they came. As she had told her sister, and as she was telling her sister's imaginary voice now, Arcden was her associate and friend, not some romanced hero.





When they decided on the watches, Zaria wasn't happy in the least. She didn't like sharing her cloak with the human girl, but with both of her other companions gone, she was left to the huddling. Zaria made it very clear in that moment that if Greyden didn't insist on keeping the girl alive, she would have let the girl shiver in the cold.










Day 4




The fast pace was kept through the next day. Zaria cooked most of the meals throughout the day which in her mind let the boys rest. She wasn't the best of cooks, but she could use spices in a way that made the food edible whereas the boys had a bit of a problem with the fact.

Zaria kept her information current during their travels, occasionally stepping away to retrieve a message or investigating a town in secret. She only half paid attention to Greyden's pestering of Arcden. Though, she did pay attention to some of the details that pointed toward Arcden's love interest back in Iesti. How many blonde elves did she know? The ones she could think of were in the higher parts of society. Did he want a rich lady? That would help his status among the Iesti, if it was the case.





When they approached their target, Zaria agreed to keep the girl outside while the deed was done inside. Then the decision came where she would either go with them, or wait with the human child. She glared, but settled with staying with the defenseless girl. It was the most practical answer, even though she didn't like it one bit.





Once the man had been removed, Zaria moved inside and approached the victim of their target. She cooed to the girl, keeping a distance in order to keep the girl comfortable, but make also make her feel protected and safe from the other men, if they were a worry. She had done this many times, with victims of various ages and gender. Her features were that of a kind mother, as Zaria took on a softer side of her personality, something she usually just saved for her disguises or occasions such as this. But, as with all acting, the core of it had to come from somewhere, so it was safe to assume that Zaria had a much kinder side that she hid behind business and logic.










Day 3




They slowed their pace, mostly for Greyden's sake, the next day. Zaria kept an eye on her comrade, in case he showed signs that the slower pace also affected him. That night, she and Arcden forced Greyden to sleep and get a full nights rest while they split their watches between the two of them, and they altered shifts with the human child.







Day 2




With Greyden's insufferable, nonstop talking back, Zaria let him be. If one good thing came from the human girl, it was that she sidetracked Greyden from pestering Zaria and Arcden. Not that he stayed sidetracked long, but any deviation of attention from the two of them was preferred.

That night, they reached the town, and Zaria left to receive payment. When she arrived, the butler and client were both very haughty. She found out through various parts of the exchange from client to victim girl, that their client had exaggerated a bit. The man that stole his daughter was simply a man that loved her, but didn't know how to convince her father that he was a man of worth and marriage. So, he kidnapped her. Though, most of this exchange was through whispers, so she was sure that the twins outside hadn't heard.





Zaria kept the information to herself, as she wouldn't want the boys to know how their client had tricked them. That would be a death she would spare the client and the grief of his daughter. Instead, she made a side-trip to the bank of the town, claiming she had some business there to attend to when she separated from the boys, and by using a bit her of her influence, the man would have a bit of uncomfortable living for the next few decades. She also set to hiring a few friends in town that would ensure that the man would suffer political suicide and lose much of his fortune to some unfortunate circumstances.





When his destruction was complete, Zaria would pay him a visit. She had many clients that were this way, that the twins didn't know about. It was one of the reasons she received so many messages throughout most of her days. She required updates on many of the men and women that she slowly destroyed the lives of. While the twins believed in their corpse creation as the best vengeance, she found that making a person's life hell was much more satisfying.





She returned to the boys at the Inn, and they were none the wiser. She didn't think they'd have high thoughts of her if they knew that she kept secrets, but she was sure that it would come as no surprise if they ever discovered them. She was second-hand to the Iesti spy master. That was generally explanation enough that she may be as corrupt as the other elves that surrounded her in Iesti.










Day 1




Zaria received a few birds that day, but it was one full of quiet travel. Well, quiet as it usually was with Greyden's voice creating a hum for background noise. They all agreed to stop at Upolo City to drop off the girl, and then they would be on their way again to Iesti.

She just hoped they wouldn't be held up at the City.










Present Day




That morning, Zaria made the breakfast and let the boys take down the camp. Afterwards, they headed towards Upolo. Zaria glanced back at the girl before meeting Greyden's gaze. She raised a brow. While he was logical enough to let the girl go, he seemed to be rather fond of her. Perhaps it was something to do with the fact that carrying a girl on his back made them better attached to one another, but she couldn't be sure. She just hoped that he could give up his charge-pet when the time came.




Entering the city was as stressful as it always was, and Zaria's gaze landed on the city's gates.


"Where do you suppose we stop first?"

she asked both the boys. They must have some idea for where the girl would be best suited.






https://www.rpnation.com/profile/5169-syrenrei/@Syrenrei

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/5169-syrenrei/

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/2374-pastel-stitchings/@pastel stitchings

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/2374-pastel-stitchings/
 
Sol updated A World Untamed with a new update entry:


New Member Huzzah!

Name:
Liam Fontaine


Age:



36


Gender:



Male


Appearance:



Unhelmeted


wenyang-png.71401



Helmeted


wen-yang-full-1687845-jpg.71402



Race:



Human


Personality:


A stoic soldier with no sense of humor and a heart of a patriot. He lives to protect the kingdom of Sernn, and will be proud doing so. Despite his rather attractive looks under that helmet of his, his icy...
Read the rest of this update entry... 



  • The captives had proven to be very resistant and unwilling to tell him the truth. Lazarus's patience ran thin, he needed to know what Hyr was planning, it wasn't like Einreir to send a berserker down to Upolo if not as a show of power. Furthermore the berserkers seemed to be accompanied by a strange young girl. The girl herself was also an unknown variable that just seemed to put the golem on edge. She may be small and frail compared to her companions but he could feel an exponentially potent strength in her, one that could easily dwarf his own and that was a statement none could ever make lightly. Lazarus was probably the most powerful intelligent being on the face of Boldan, enough to even force King Stenhardt to submission were they to fight in single combat. He was still powerful despite his deficiency in life-giving mana but his was a mere stream compared to that of the girl's ocean. It seemed the magi left descendants at least, however Lazarus sought release, more a thousand years of life is reward in itself for what he's done to try and right Upolo.


    Though he would rather live long enough to stem the tide of Hyrian barbarians that would soon descend from the north. The man named Ludo was an omen, there was no doubt of it.


    "Very well, young lady. If that is how you wish to view me, then I believe we are done here."


    As Lazarus turned to exit a member of the Talon rushed into the interrogation cell. The boy was heaving and no doubt felt the weight of the armor on his shoulders. The Talons were supposed to be an elegant unit and composed at all times but not everyone had to adhere to the public notion of them, especially not this one who was out of breath.


    "Sit and speak, officer. I am already done with our guests, see to it that their companion is given medical supplies when they leave."


    "S-ser, the rats..they.."


    "Yes, go on."


    "They've barred the exit to the council building and set it aflame. We're trapped."


    "Well then, I suppose it is time for me to carve an exit for our guests from Hyr. It'd be a shame if these envoys bring news to Einreir of Upolo's sorry state. And you three...none of this happened, understood? There was no fire, there is no civil unrest. You, officer, hand me your sword and head to the infirmary to pack basic medicinal supplies for our guests, right this instant."


    "Understood, sir. Fighting also broke out in the main plaza, but I assure you those rats will feel the rend of our Talons. "


    With that, the Talon officer had handed Lazarus his sword, effectively arming his leader, and left for the infirmary. The fires had not reached the detainment wing of the Council building but there was no other exit from the detainment wing other than the main doors of the building. It would be child's play to ensure safe exit for his guests. After all, he was not so fragile to be toppled by a burning building.


 
Arcden & Greyden- Capital City of Upolo


The question of where to go was posed to the twins and they were both in contemplation of the best place to begin. Greyden felt visiting one of the city scribes was the best choice as they were likely to value her literacy and as a writer she presumably would enjoy copying and inking pages. His lips had parted to convey this rare insight when the distant clamor of angry people reached his ears. Arcden heard it as well for his features immediately set into a slightly-more-drawn stoic expression of concern. It was a bad sign to have violence erupting in the capital; it would spread from here across the land undoubtedly. Where else could they go? Ituro? Rumors were that Ituro and Sernn were on the brink of war and the tension was palpable. It was cruel to deposit the helpless girl in turmoil but they could not fathom a place of safety in all of Boldan. Better to assess the situation here than immediately flee for proverbial greener pastures that may not exist.


"You stay here with Chickadee. I will investigate." Greyden considered objecting as it was dangerous for his twin to venture into the chaos alone. The scent of burning cinders was becoming stronger and the echoes of discord grew with each passing moment. Greyden sighed in reluctant resignation and Arcden pulled his hair back into a higher ponytail so the heat from the apparent fire would be more tolerable.


"Be careful," Greyden finally sighed. "And return quickly. We'll need to make a decision about Iesti as well." The deadline for heading home was also rapidly approaching if they wanted to be in time for the wedding of Zaria's sister. Arcden and Greyden's gaze both flickered to the blonde as they did some mental calculations. Even now it would be challenging to arrive early as they had initially intended. They both also realized the elf was anxious and frustrated by their dedication to this stranger. Chickadee was not able to fight, was not acclimated to traveling, was not especially hardy, or trained in any manner that was beneficial. Greyden (and to a lesser degree Arcden) still found her intriguing and pleasant enough, however. A person's worth was not always summarized by their ability to survive in the wild. Hell, she was coping pretty amazingly for being thrown into the company of two assassins and a spy of a race she had never heard of before.


"I will, but this may create a delay regardless. I will understand if you wish to go to Iesti without us," Arcden told Zaria. The half-elf's expression was as stern as it always was but inwardly he churned through emotions. Greyden's incessant teasing and nagging had driven home that their elven companion would not always be there. Each second, minute, hour, day, week was precious. Her parents could arrange her marriage at any juncture and a new spy master could recall her to the confines of their country and city for as long as they saw fit. He shifted his weight and considered the gravity of this singular instance. Every mission was a dance with death. Every journey could prove lethal. Every parting could be the last they saw of one another; they were much more easily ripped asunder than the two brothers from one another. Though she wasn't sure she could endure staying in Iesti she was at least considering the notion of setting roots and climbing up the political/power ladder in her future.


With a sudden stride forward that startled even Greyden, Arcden closed the distance between himself and the lady of his affections. Without asking for permission he leaned forward and deposited an assertive kiss on her lips that held only a fraction of the passions he felt. He had made a decision to express himself yet he would not expose her to the feelings that neither of them were fully prepared to handle. A man of so few words did not find a verbal confession any easier than that of action and so this was all she would receive. "Stay safe, whatever your decision may be." And without waiting for a response of approval or disdain he turned on his feet and sprinted towards the calamity deeper within the city. Arcden was not fleeing Zaria out of doubt but rather throwing himself in what must be done. There was no doubt she would be able to use this opportunity to sever herself and be free of their burdens or forever entangle herself in their affairs. It was her decision, however, and Arcden believed she deserved honesty before it was made.


Greyden watched the disappearing back of his brother with amazement. "You know, for a spy sometimes you miss the things closest to you. I missed it as well for a while. Everyone has their secrets buried deeply." He was addressing Zaria, of course, but he turned towards Chickadee and flashed her one of his charismatic smiles. "Don't worry, we won't abandon you here. I'm not sure what your world is like, but not one country has a firm grip on peace. There is always something or someone causing problems. Do you want to stay here or move farther away from the city?"


@Auren & @pastel stitchings
 
xBoldan - Upolo Capital - Zaria L’instxxxxxxx







Zaria could see Greyden's mouth move as he started to say something about the predicament of the human when the sound of a riot reached their ears. Her eyes darted toward Arcden as his face was covered in concern, while it wasn't much of a change from his normal state of stoic. As always, he insisted on putting himself into the situation before the other two had a change to discuss. The corner of her lips turned down slightly, but she knew better than to argue with the elf.





"We will find a place to keep the girl safe while you investigate,"

Zaria said after Greyden. As far as Iesti went, her sister's wedding was a very political event. She nodded to Arcden, her gaze in a far away place of thought. While her sister would understand that Zaria would be preoccupied or delayed, her father may not. He always had some sort of scheme every time she returned home, and more often than not, she was covering his trail or avoiding him all together.




She jumped when Arcden closed the distance between the two of them, and as his lips covered hers, she gasped. Then, he was gone with a simple sentence. Her knees had gone weak, and she found herself reaching for the wall of the building next to them. She leaned against it, seeming to be a tad out of breath. It was odd for her to be so taken back, and she barely heard Greyden's comment about her ability to miss closer topics.




Her mind searched over the past few days, a few hints clicking into place. A petite, blonde elf that would be Arcden's type, a description that suited her. Her sister had always teased her about romancing one of the twins, or both, but she never thought--




Her hand went to her forehead, and she breathed a sigh finally. She wasn't sure how to handle Arcden's sudden action, and she felt it was as good as him telling her his own feelings. She felt her cheeks redden as she remembered talking to him about settling down, and how she now felt she had been very undressed without her armor that night. Sure, she had clothes under her armor, but they had become as good as everyday clothing.




Taking a moment, she stood back up and readjusted her cloak. This was something she'd have to think about later. The smell and heat from the fire seemed to be getting closer, and they needed to move.

"We should probably get somewhere safer,"

she said before turning to walk down the streets, paying no mind if the girl or elf followed her.





https://www.rpnation.com/profile/5169-syrenrei/@Syrenrei

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/5169-syrenrei/

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/2374-pastel-stitchings/@pastel stitchings

https://www.rpnation.com/profile/2374-pastel-stitchings/
 
SERNN MILITARY FORCES

We Will Not Remain Silent


Sernn Capital




The clacking of footsteps on the floor rang through the hallway, as a short, pale-haired young woman made her way to the war room. Her eyes were narrowed, her brows furrowed considerably, putting lines on her usually unsullied face. A quiver and a sword hung at her hip, and a bow slung over her shoulder, all of which bumped against her physique with each step. The news that her scouts brought were not good ones. Sernn hadn't had the best of times lately, and her people were restless. Their King had gone sailing off who knows where, one of their princesses had fallen to assassins, and their Acting Regent had locked herself in her room. Some of the guards had reported the wailing of an anguished woman coming from within her chambers, and no one had dared to affirm this fact. Josephine shuddered as she thought of the situation, and wished never to be in the shoes of the man that had to take control of it all. The same man was the one she had to report her findings to, and, while she had never seen him angered, she was afraid of what his reaction will be. She came to the door that led to the war room, and grasped the handle. She took in a deep breath, knocked twice and turned the handle, pushing the door open. The room was brightly lit, with the curtains drawn, and the light of the sun pouring in on the table, revealing a map of Sernn and its neighbours. Liam Fontaine stood at one side of the table, hands folded behind him, and his attention paid to the window, eyes staring outside into the bright day. Three men sat on the chairs behind him, all three armored heavily. One of the men, a silver-haired young one, whose chair was balanced precariously on two legs, as his own was propped up against the table, his helmet standing on one corner of the map, winked at her as she entered. She ignored him.


Josephine bowed to the audience that Liam held, her face flushed as the blood began to flow into her cheeks. "Liam, the southern villages...they've been taken by Ituro troops. Last my reconnaissance team checked, two of our villages have been over-run by Iturians, and their nearby Iturian village has been reinforced by troops. Our surviving border troops have retreated to the fortresses east and west of here to recuperate. They've taken a beating and about three-quarters of the total troops are dead or heavily injured. My units have relayed to me that the ceasefire had reportedly caused them to be..." she scratched the back of her neck, searching for a less rude word for 'lazy', "...lax in their duties, and were thus caught by surprise. They request reinforcement immediately, but the villages are already taken. Some of the Sernnites tried to return fire, but were ultimately killed for their valiant attempts."

xvPSSlj.jpg



Liam nodded solemnly, never once taking his eyes off the horizon as he absorbed the information wordlessly. The job of a commander had been thrust upon him unceremoniously after the surviving Princess returned from her trip to the dunes, and brought back a rather odd visitor. He accepted it without any complaint, but Josephine could see that the soldier was not as pleased as someone who had gotten the highest post in the military should be. Liam turned on his heel and moved towards the map set upon the table, the light behind him casting a shadow upon the map. He leaned against the table, both hands propping him up as he studied the topography of Sernn. The other four, including Josephine, remained quiet as the man mulled over his strategy in his head. The silver-haired axeman removed his feet from the table, allowing his chair to fall back to its four feet, cutting the silence that permeated the room. The others present turned to look at him, with the exception of Liam. The dark-haired soldier, instead, straightened up, and folded his arms, his brows furrowed.


"Oscar." He said, suddenly. One of the armored knights, the shorter of the two, stood up and tipped his head slightly. "You will take your squad, with ten archers. Josephine, you will back Oscar up. Take all your archers if you have to. Both of you will break to the South East-"


"Liam, sir, the villages are at the Sou--"


"I do not recall giving you permission to speak, Josephine." Liam's voice was calm and level, but just his heavy authority silenced the archer. "As I was saying, both of you will break to the South East. You will await further instructions that will be given through a smoke signal from the capital. Upon first sight of smoke, make your way to the villages and recover the villages. Your team is given only three hours to accomplish this. Due to the nature of this mission, it is imperative you attempt to accomplish this in shorter than three hours."


"Nature of this mission, sir? May I clarify as to what you mean by that?" Oscar queried.






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Liam nodded in acknowledgement of his question as he straightened up from the map. He reached over and plucked two more metal pieces from one end of the table and placed them at the outside of the southern gates, and shifted them forwards, towards red-painted pieces, which numbered by the dozen. "The strategy is simple. I and Wulfram will head on forwards to meet the enemy forces. Squads 65 and 112 will be backing my own elite troops, both of which are defensive troops. Wulfram will, at a certain time, split from the group and attempt to flank them from the right by breaking to the west. This is simply a diversion for both your and Josephine's team to head on over to the villages. Wulfram, I have it in my confidence that you will ensure there are minimal casualties amongst your men?"


The silver haired axe-man simply grinned at Liam, and placed both of his arms behind his head, reclining on his chair. "Man, we'll run circles around them before they can even swing once at us. Don't worry about it, Liam. We'll deal with those losers. For Sernn and all that, am I right?"






<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_08/57a8c0314528f_creightonofmirrahanimewallpaperdarksouls2animewallpaper.jpg.c01898535e70657811688e5babb8a49d.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="27734" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_08/57a8c0314528f_creightonofmirrahanimewallpaperdarksouls2animewallpaper.jpg.c01898535e70657811688e5babb8a49d.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


Liam nodded, and turned to the last man in the room, whose girth shifted the chair behind him back a feet or two when he stood up. He bowed low to the others. Josephine couldn't shake the feeling that she had seen this man roaming the castle walls before, and wondered just who exactly this bearded knight was. Liam answered her question almost immediately. "Kingsley, I believe I have entrusted you with the preparations yesterday. Have you performed the necessary work for the plan in order to ensure these walls do not crumble?"


Yesterday? She had only returned with the information just today. Josephine cast a sharp look at Liam, whose calm demeanour seemed unshakable, even at a time of crisis. He had already prepared the defenses in advance, in anticipation of an attack. She had no idea whether it was insane preparation and readiness, or just paranoia that took hold of the commander. If it was the latter, Liam did not look as if he was disturbed by this mental illness. What did she know anyway? She was a soldier, not a psychologist.


"I have, Liam, sir." Jorge replied, his baritone rumbling through the room. Josephine swore she felt the vibration from where she stood.






<p><a href="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_08/6e991947468890c19eb248c679a41019cced2771.jpg.17382201a873a884f5c34630ba29f889.jpg" class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image"><img data-fileid="27736" src="<fileStore.core_Attachment>/monthly_2014_08/6e991947468890c19eb248c679a41019cced2771.jpg.17382201a873a884f5c34630ba29f889.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" alt=""></a></p>


"Very well. Jorge here will be leading the defense of the capital. We have put in procedures that ensure no one enters or exits the capital. Absolutely not a single soul will be able to walk out of these gates once we sortie, and not a single soul will step in until I personally give word. Come nightfall, all guards stationed at the walls of the capital will shoot to kill, so do not approach the walls at night. I have given Jorge explicit instruction that no one from the sortie is to return inside without my presence so as to ensure there will be no spies or imposters claiming to be our troops seeking refuge.


"Jorge will be lighting the fire at the south-eastern wall for the smoke signal. He will do so when the Southern troops engage the enemy, and when Wulfram breaks off from the group. What are your instructions again, Josephine and Oscar?"


"Proceed to the villages and wipe out the enemy forces based there." Both replied in a chorus. Neither looked at the other.


"Perfect." Liam began pacing about the room again, one hand on his chin as he pondered on something. "When you arrive at the villages, do not be taken aback if the Iturians decide to take our people hostage. In which case, minimise civilian casualties, but do what you must."


"But, sir--" Oscar protested before Josephine did.


"I know. We will be effectively killing our own people should it come to that. But recall our mission. We are to drive back the threat that will plague our lands if we do not retaliate. We have been lax in our defences, and that is why we have lost our southern border. Our Princess is in trauma and shock, our King nowhere to be seen. However, we have to show these Outsiders that we do not need our Princess nor our King to fight. We are Sernnites, and we will show them the bite of the dog that has slept until now. We will not remain silent, lady and gentlemen. We will not let them trample on our sands and rule freely. Even if it means our death, we will oppose those who try to take those which belong to us. Is that clear?"


"Affirmative, sir." was the collective reply.


Liam nodded once more and picked up his helmet, cradling it under his arm as he moved to the door and threw it open. He seated the helmet upon his head, and turned to face the others. "We sortie in one hour. Gather your troops and prepare to deploy. You are dismissed."





 

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ITURIAN MILITARY FORCES

Hilde Valesti, Iturian central command (formerly the Sernnite Border Town of Uloric), Midday


The sun had finally reached its peak.


Much time had passed since they first established a foothold in Sernn the night prior. The army had followed General Cyrus Valesti's orders to spend most of the early morning to shore up defenses around all three villages and to get rest before proceeding further into the dusty, golden landscape of Sernn. Despite her position as Governess General, Hilde's own plan had been discarded. She had opted to make the most of the momentum and seize half of Sernn before now. However, as she thought about it, they would be hard-pressed into maintaining that line and without a secure supply route coming from Ituro itself, their campaign would be shortlived. They needed a place to call home that wasn't too far from home.


The environment was hostile as it was and movement would be impaired as the forces would march through these sands. Worse still are the Sand Elves, they were once a discriminated minority of Sernnite society but have now found a place equal to the Sernnite humans. It gives them an incentive in defending Sernn and they were what made these sands perilous. If the bandits were able to spring from this golden sea, kill, pillage and disappear back into it. What more could those funded and trained by the Stenhardt government?


This village of Uloric had been the first to fall and was the biggest out of all the three villages they had seized. It was unanimously decided that Hilde would have command of the central push into the Sernnite heart. She had been given the spear tip. Except she wasn't the only spear tip, Cyrus and Fealdon were both spear tips too as this trident would pave its way to the capital. Depending on whether or not they had sufficiently secured Upolo's participation in this, Fealdon's forces need not encircle the Eastern Front of Sernn. They could join Hilde in beseiging Sernnhold and the outlying towns.


For now, however, All three forces are on standby in their respective bases. It was stupid to bide one's time against a more disciplined fighting force but Hilde would rather be facing them in a defensive position than out in the desert sands. Her connections had also panned out as their forces had been equipped with Upolonian grade weaponry. It would at least help even the odds against a militaristic nation.


Runners had arrived from both Cyrus and Fealdon's forces as well as her trusted spy from Sernnhold itself. The runners had delivered their reports, Cyrus had been able to raid a few small towns as well as a merchant's caravan that was probably making its way to Sernnhold. The Western Advance, led by Cyrus and beginning from the Border Village of Renuva had already sighted a probable location for a forward base along the western ridges and cliffs that wards Sernn against the sea, except for a small chink in the natural wall where Sernn had begun erecting a port town. If they had Camori's support, they could have had a naval fleet funneling soldiers into that half erected town and streamlining the process of circling the Western Front. However, Camori would not see reason and shipwrights were loyal to him. It eliminated the possibility of a naval insertion.


Fealdon, on the other hand had reported that the Eastern front was relatively bare with a few fortified trading towns that are apparently frequented by a number of Upolonian merchants or so Fealdon's outriders had said. It was Fealdon who had the most perilous charge, wide expanses of sand and not many towns to shelter them from Sand Elves. He requested that Hilde would approve a steady advance along the Eastern Front, arguing that to rush that expanse of desert would be dangerous, not because of the Sernnite Army but also with the looming threat of a large bandit outfit that was the reason for the fortified trading towns. Fealdon hopes that he may be able to strike a deal with this bandit lord but requests that any material wealth or riches that are looted along the Central and Western Advance be sent to him to give said bandit lord an incentive to fight for their cause.


"Marik, tell of me of Sernn's movements. What have you learned from Sernnhold, what does the child plan to do?"


"Lady Valesti. This one regrets to say that this "child" has not been seen outside the Stenhardt castle for quite some time. A nobleman had been given the charge to defend Sernn. My eyes see that they are prepared to march at any moment. My hears hear of whispers that say you are all concentrated in South."


"Good. Do you have any idea when they might fully mobilize or their numbers, Marik?"


"This one could only guess the defender's real numbers. However, this one would guess that they plan to mobilize later in the day. This one was surprised that Sernnhold had been relatively quiet throughout the morning until a ragged woman burst through the gates and screamed of an attack. This knew that that he could not linger in the capital any more. A masterstroke in catching these so called warriors off guard, Lady Valesti."


"Surprising. I had expect that Sernn would have caught on earlier. Perhaps my cousin and his right hand man deserve a reward for doing an excellent job establishing a foothold in Sernn. You are dimissed, Marik."


"Lady Valesti, if it please you. This one would like to serve in ridding Boldan of this filth."


"I was worried you would never ask. You two, you're not deaf, report to your generals and relay exactly what Marik said. Understood?"


"Understood, General Valesti!"


"Marik, we are about to pull out a thorn in Ituro's side that had been lodged since its birth. Requisition your equipment from the quartermaster. Welcome back, my sixth blade, my hidden blade. The other five have been waiting for their grand master to return. Assemble them after you equip yourself. Dismissed!"


It was ironic that all Hilde had done with this town was to fortify it, when she had urged them to ride the crashing wave and advance as far as they could. Instead she found herself with her Six Blades reunited, that group would be instrumental in pushing through Central Sernn. For now, she would weather Sernn's retaliation and move again in the cover of night. If all went according to plan then the defensive forces in the center would be leaderless and scattered come morning. She had faith in her Six Blades after all.
 
(Sorry for the very late reply. I am having a bit of trouble trying to figure out how to respond.)


Chickadee froze when she heard the shouting coming from the city. Was that supposed to be like that? Probably not. No, definitely not. The group had made the city sound generally okay, not plagued with turmoil and constant fighting. And was that the smell of fire?They were not going to drop her off there with the place like that, were they? Chickadee backed up slightly away from the group as they spoke and put her attention elsewhere. Now what?

The next things that happened kind of went pretty quickly in her eyes. She saw Arcden plant a kiss on Zaria and said a few words to her before leaving. Chickadee looked silently at the lady then at Greyden when he spoke to her. She nodded, still not speaking. There was not really that much for her to say at that moment. All she really could do was follow along and hope for the best. That was what she had been doing for the past few days anyways, and nothing too tramatic had happened. That lucky streak could end that day though. Hopefully not. She did not feel that she could survive more bad luck.

Chickadee glanced at Zaria when she spoke, then looked back at Greyden to see if he was going to follow. The girl kind of nervously flipped the pages of her journal as she looked up at him and overall could not seem to stay still, which was to be expected from a kind of panicked teenager. Really panicked actually. Who wouldn't be at least a littke panicked by the situation anyways?​
 
Jenna- Upolo City


Jenna had been so convinced of the villainy of Lazarus that she was baffled by his acceptance and resignation towards her analysis. The chatty teenager was sitting there stumped, listening to the strange man converse with the soldier, when another notion dawned on her. Perhaps he was a hero in the same manner Ludovic was: his virtue was buried underneath a less congenial exterior. In many of games and novels there are handsome sorts so tortured by their lives they become callous and abrasive, yet have a heart of gold. Squirming uncomfortably in her seat she drew together her brows. It was a possibility, was it not? Maybe Lazarus didn't know how callous and judgmental his people were. He was a man of the law who was trying his best in impossible circumstances. Yes, yes! Many tales had foils and what was better than the young, slightly ill-tempered, barbarian mercenary and the older, patient, strict ruler? In time their differences in personalities and outlooks would surely blossom into a mutual respect and (if she was lucky) intense relationship that almost surpassed that of brotherly affection.


Bursting out of her seat, the petite girl thrust up her hand like a child in school volunteering. "Wait, wait! I want to help!" If her assertions were correct she need only to prove herself a heroine of virtue. After she did so Lazarus would want to become her guardian or at least offer her further insight as to her quest and ultimate purpose. How could he understand what greatness she possessed without seeing it firsthand? This was the exact sort of scenario that was intended to prove her courage, selflessness, and fortitude.


For a flickering moment there was doubt in her heart. Could she be what they needed? Was it possible for a student and dreamer, who was not yet an adult, to blaze a path? Jenna was not the smartest or prettiest girl at school, she was not athletic, and she had never won any competitions or awards of note for any of her hobbies. Yet this was exactly the sort of maiden that got dragged into fantasy portals to save distant lands. The young female tried to bolster herself emotionally and set aside her apprehension. How else could this all be explained?


Since they had not been entirely forthcoming with Lazarus about Jenna's 'power' she figured he need proof she could help. She scurried over to the side of the opposing figure and grasped the blade of his weapon before he could realize her intent. Jenna winced in pain (for her abilities did not mitigate that) and then slowly unfurled her digits. Her palm was wet with the blood that had initially sprung forth from the slice in her flesh- yet it did not bleed further. Mysteriously and without explanation it had apparently congealed itself instantly.


"I think I also heal more quickly than most people do too. I have an injury that is slowly getting better, but still faster than it should if I was normal." She paused here and took a deep breath to gather her bravery. "So I can help you!"


@Killigrew & @Sol
 

Ludovic of Hyr


Somewhere




A snort escaped Ludo at Jenna’s bold retort. The girl had nerve, whatever her soft hands. He’d tensed to position himself in front of this Lazarus for the violence he was sure would come, his shadowed eyes kept warily on the bird-man.



Instead, the fellow disengaged.



It seemed his warning before was full of hot air; the threat of starvation fell flat in his inaction; they would be set free, it seemed, from what Ludo could gather from Lazarus’ exchange with the guard.



Rats. Ludo’s ears pricked. Flames and rats. By the sound of it, the cage they had just been released from had only opened up a whole new prison to traipse around in. Ludo would have none of it.



But he had only just moved to his feet, intending to offer his arm in mutual motivation, as Jenna rushed past him, the flurry of her darkened hair covering his midway vision for a brief moment.



Before he’d had a chance to draw his breath, much less warn her off, she’d stolen a sword and cut herself up.



Sure, her skill was abnormal, even unnatural, but Ludo could not see it saving her life. Nor did he believe it was much worth the risk.



“Hold a moment.” Ludo grimaced. “This one,” He motioned to Jenna with a turning of his jaw as he stepped in front, cutting into Lazarus' line of sight. “Hardly knows a sword from a spear. Perhaps she could be trained for combat at a later time, but I do not see her being more than a burden in breaking past the barrier. But my arms and my body know battle. Have her remain behind the fighting lines, and see to my friend’s well-being as you have done already. I will lend you my strength.”
 
((Since the OOC isn't linked, just waiting on @Jaysun for Thane to keep everyone synced in time!))
 

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